Celebrating Unsung Heroes: The 2025 Impact Awards Shine a Light on Substitute Teachers
May 23, 2025, 11:49 pm
In the world of education, substitute teachers often remain in the shadows. They step in when regular teachers are absent, filling gaps and keeping the wheels of learning turning. Yet, their contributions can go unnoticed. This year, ESS, a national leader in education personnel management, is changing that narrative. The 2025 Impact Awards honor five exceptional substitute teachers who have gone above and beyond, making a significant difference in their schools and communities.
The awards ceremony took place on May 22, 2025, in various school districts across the country. Each honoree received a $5,000 cash prize and an additional $2,000 to donate to a school of their choice. This year’s awards are not just about recognition; they symbolize a commitment to elevating the role of substitutes in education.
Megan Murcko from Trumbull Public Schools, Connecticut, is one of the shining stars. Since joining ESS in 2023, she has filled nearly 300 absences at Frenchtown Elementary School. Her focus has been on supporting students with special needs. She is not just a warm body in the classroom; she is a beacon of hope and stability for her students. Her ability to adapt to various learning needs has made her an integral part of the school community.
Kelly Dodgen, another recipient from Powhatan County Public Schools in Virginia, has been a substitute since 2024. Her dedication goes beyond the classroom. She mentors other substitutes, creating a supportive network that enhances the overall educational environment. Kelly embodies the spirit of teamwork and collaboration, making her a respected figure at Pocahontas Elementary School.
Gary Bishop, a retired educator from Littleton Public Schools in Colorado, began substituting with ESS in 2023. With decades of experience, he brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to his role. Gary excels at building trust with students, especially those facing emotional challenges. His presence is a calming force, and he has become a cornerstone of the school community.
Keith Asaeli from Belton School District in Missouri has been a substitute since 2023. He has filled over 200 absences at Mills Creek Upper Elementary. His patience and flexibility create a positive learning environment. Keith’s approach is gentle yet firm, earning him the respect of both students and staff. He is a living testament to the impact a dedicated substitute can have on a school.
Cale Beissner, serving in Denton Independent School District, Texas, has been with ESS since 2021. As a substitute school counselor at Savannah Elementary School, he provides essential mental health support. Cale helps students navigate emotional challenges, fostering resilience and coping skills. His calm demeanor and empathetic listening create a safe space for students to express themselves.
These five educators are not just filling in; they are stepping up. They lead, inspire, and make lasting impressions on their students and colleagues. Their stories reflect the heart of ESS’s mission: to provide quality education and support to every student.
The 2025 Impact Awards are a testament to the importance of recognizing those who often go unnoticed. Substitute teachers play a crucial role in maintaining continuity in education. They are the unsung heroes who ensure that learning never stops, even when regular teachers are absent.
ESS has been at the forefront of this movement since its establishment in 2000. The organization recruits, hires, trains, and manages qualified substitute teachers and support staff for school districts across the United States. Each day, ESS fills over 35,000 assignments, serving approximately 5.5 million students. Their commitment to education is unwavering.
The increased prize values for this year’s awards reflect a growing recognition of the vital role substitutes play in education. It’s not just about filling a position; it’s about making a difference. The honorees exemplify this ethos, showing that substitutes can be leaders and mentors in their own right.
In a world where education is constantly evolving, the role of substitutes is more important than ever. They are the glue that holds the educational system together during times of need. Their ability to adapt, connect, and inspire is invaluable.
As we celebrate these five remarkable individuals, let us remember the countless others who step into classrooms every day. They may not wear capes, but they are heroes nonetheless. The 2025 Impact Awards shine a light on their contributions, reminding us all of the power of dedication and compassion in education.
In conclusion, the 2025 Impact Awards are more than just a recognition ceremony. They are a call to action. Let us honor and support our substitute teachers, ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve. After all, in the grand tapestry of education, every thread counts. And every substitute teacher is a vital part of that fabric.
The awards ceremony took place on May 22, 2025, in various school districts across the country. Each honoree received a $5,000 cash prize and an additional $2,000 to donate to a school of their choice. This year’s awards are not just about recognition; they symbolize a commitment to elevating the role of substitutes in education.
Megan Murcko from Trumbull Public Schools, Connecticut, is one of the shining stars. Since joining ESS in 2023, she has filled nearly 300 absences at Frenchtown Elementary School. Her focus has been on supporting students with special needs. She is not just a warm body in the classroom; she is a beacon of hope and stability for her students. Her ability to adapt to various learning needs has made her an integral part of the school community.
Kelly Dodgen, another recipient from Powhatan County Public Schools in Virginia, has been a substitute since 2024. Her dedication goes beyond the classroom. She mentors other substitutes, creating a supportive network that enhances the overall educational environment. Kelly embodies the spirit of teamwork and collaboration, making her a respected figure at Pocahontas Elementary School.
Gary Bishop, a retired educator from Littleton Public Schools in Colorado, began substituting with ESS in 2023. With decades of experience, he brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to his role. Gary excels at building trust with students, especially those facing emotional challenges. His presence is a calming force, and he has become a cornerstone of the school community.
Keith Asaeli from Belton School District in Missouri has been a substitute since 2023. He has filled over 200 absences at Mills Creek Upper Elementary. His patience and flexibility create a positive learning environment. Keith’s approach is gentle yet firm, earning him the respect of both students and staff. He is a living testament to the impact a dedicated substitute can have on a school.
Cale Beissner, serving in Denton Independent School District, Texas, has been with ESS since 2021. As a substitute school counselor at Savannah Elementary School, he provides essential mental health support. Cale helps students navigate emotional challenges, fostering resilience and coping skills. His calm demeanor and empathetic listening create a safe space for students to express themselves.
These five educators are not just filling in; they are stepping up. They lead, inspire, and make lasting impressions on their students and colleagues. Their stories reflect the heart of ESS’s mission: to provide quality education and support to every student.
The 2025 Impact Awards are a testament to the importance of recognizing those who often go unnoticed. Substitute teachers play a crucial role in maintaining continuity in education. They are the unsung heroes who ensure that learning never stops, even when regular teachers are absent.
ESS has been at the forefront of this movement since its establishment in 2000. The organization recruits, hires, trains, and manages qualified substitute teachers and support staff for school districts across the United States. Each day, ESS fills over 35,000 assignments, serving approximately 5.5 million students. Their commitment to education is unwavering.
The increased prize values for this year’s awards reflect a growing recognition of the vital role substitutes play in education. It’s not just about filling a position; it’s about making a difference. The honorees exemplify this ethos, showing that substitutes can be leaders and mentors in their own right.
In a world where education is constantly evolving, the role of substitutes is more important than ever. They are the glue that holds the educational system together during times of need. Their ability to adapt, connect, and inspire is invaluable.
As we celebrate these five remarkable individuals, let us remember the countless others who step into classrooms every day. They may not wear capes, but they are heroes nonetheless. The 2025 Impact Awards shine a light on their contributions, reminding us all of the power of dedication and compassion in education.
In conclusion, the 2025 Impact Awards are more than just a recognition ceremony. They are a call to action. Let us honor and support our substitute teachers, ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve. After all, in the grand tapestry of education, every thread counts. And every substitute teacher is a vital part of that fabric.